It was all about breasts at Knitknack on Springfield Avenue in Maplewood on Monday night, October 27.
Knitted breasts, that is.
Owner Marie Downes hosted a group knitting prosthetic breasts for women who have had mastectomies. The knitters were inspired by the website knittedknockers.org which helps “connect volunteer knitters with breast cancer survivors to offer free Knitted Knockers to any woman who wants them.” The knitted knocker pattern creates “special handmade breast prosthesis for women who have undergone mastectomies or other procedures to the breast.”
According to knittedknockers.org, “Traditional breast prosthetics are usually expensive, heavy, sweaty and uncomfortable. They typically require special bras or camisoles with pockets and can’t be worn for weeks after surgery. Knitted Knockers on the other hand are soft, comfortable, beautiful and when placed in a regular bra they take the shape and feel of a real breast.”
Local author, journalist and avid knitter Tina Kelley organized the event. Downes profusely thanked Kelley on the Knitknack facebook page: “I want to thank Tina Kelley for asking us to get involved. It is an honor to be able to help make a beautiful woman feel a little bit more comfortable during their tough journey.”
In turn, Kelley thanked Downes: “Marie supplied the kits and homemade pumpkin bread and there were about 10 people there, beginners through experts, very sweet!”
Watch the knitted knockers promotional video here.
Enjoy knocker knitter Tina Kelley’s photos of the Oct. 27 event below (click on a photo to start a slideshow):
